Pura Vida Holiday Adventure: Volcano to Cloud Forest

Arrive at Tabacon Thermal Resort (Arenal Volcano)

Today, meet your driver for transfer by ground for approximately 3 hours to the Arenal Volcano area. Although the volcano is currently in a resting phase, the region offers exciting opportunities.

Arrive at the Tabacón Thermal Resort. Guests of Tabacón enjoy complimentary access to the hotel’s network natural hot springs, fed by the volcano. Enjoy gourmet cuisine at Aves Restaurant or head to the hot springs and eat at Tucanes. Guests age 18 and over can access the Shangri-La Gardens, which features its own bar and spa area for added privacy. With a mix of family-friendly rooms and adults-only suites, Tabacón is one of Arenal’s most impressive hotels.

Arenal Hanging Bridges + Arenal Volcano Hike (shared)

Explore the Arenal Hanging Bridges, where more than two miles of scenic trails wind through the rainforest, crossing 16 spectacular bridges—including six suspended high above the forest floor. With your expert guide, discover the hidden world of the jungle, spotting wildlife from ground level to the canopy, all set against stunning views of Arenal Volcano.

Continue your day with the Arenal Volcano 1968 Hike, traversing hardened lava fields left by past eruptions. Along the way, encounter rugged rock formations, lush regrowth, and panoramic viewpoints that bring the region’s powerful geological history to life. This immersive experience blends nature, history, and adventure, offering a deeper connection to the landscape. Enjoy lunch at a local organic farm before returning to your hotel. Overnight at Tabacón Thermal Resort.

Rio Balsa Whitewater Rafting Class II-III (shared)

The Balsa River delivers an exciting mix of Class II and III rapids, ideal for both beginners and seasoned paddlers seeking a bit of adventure. The first half of the journey features continuous Class III rapids with short calm sections in between, while the second half eases into gentler waters—perfect for relaxing and spotting wildlife along the riverbanks.

Flowing through the lush lowland rainforest of Costa Rica’s Northern Zone, the river is surrounded by vibrant jungle scenery. Keep an eye out for tropical birds and native wildlife as you take in the natural beauty of this remarkable setting. Overnight at Tabacón Thermal Resort.

PRIVATE Afternoon Sloth Tour

The Arenal region is renowned for its rich wildlife, including both species of sloths—the two-toed and three-toed. You may also spot vibrant toucans and the striking blue jean dart frog. As you search for these iconic animals, your guide will take you through La Fortuna’s best wildlife-viewing areas. Along the way, keep an eye out for birds, iguanas, and monkeys that call this lush region home. Overnight at Tabacón Thermal Resort.

Shared Arenal Lake Crossing to Monteverde Lodge (Monteverde Cloud Forest)

Begin with a ground transfer to the boat launch at the Arenal Dam, where you’ll board a scenic 45-minute boat ride across Lake Arenal to the Rio Chiquito dock. From there, continue by ground for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to the charming town of Santa Elena—your gateway to the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Arrive at Monteverde Lodge, one of the region’s most distinctive and cherished properties. The lodge features stylish, comfortable rooms, an international fusion restaurant & bar, and serene gardens showcasing native flora. Its private reserve is alive with exotic birds, elusive sloths, and delicate orchids. Enhance your stay with restaurant reservations, taxi services, and curated tours arranged through your hotel concierge.

Monteverde Aerial Tram & Canopy Zipline (shared)

Set off on a scenic journey aboard the TreeTram cable car, ascending to one of Monteverde’s highest points at 5,700 feet above sea level as you glide into the heart of the cloud forest. From there, continue with one of Costa Rica’s most exhilarating canopy adventures. Soar through the treetops across seven ziplines, ranging from 460 to 2,460 feet in length, covering a total of 1.9 miles through the forest canopy.

Height and weight restrictions apply. Please inquire for details prior to booking. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge.

El Tigre Waterfalls Hike (shared)

After a 25-minute transfer from your hotel, arrive at El Tigre, a 60-hectare private reserve rich in biodiversity. This lush forest is home to monkeys, snakes, peccaries, a diverse array of birds, and numerous insects. The reserve offers two trail options and features four waterfalls, ranging in height from 15 to 30 meters.

The intermediate to advanced hike covers approximately 3 km downhill and takes about 3 hours, crossing rivers and gravel paths along the way. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the Arenal, Rincón de la Vieja, Tenorio, and Miravalles volcanoes from a spectacular lookout point.

At the end of the trail, relax with snacks by the river before your return journey—a 20 to 30-minute horseback ride uphill. Note: The horseback ride can be replaced with a short safari-style 4×4 transfer or a more challenging 3 km uphill hike. Please advise your preference at the time of booking. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge.

Don Juan Coffee, Chocolate, & Sugar Cane Tour (shared)

Gain insight into the world of coffee, chocolate, and sugarcane production in the Monteverde and Santa Elena region. Learn how coffee cherries are harvested, observe traditional methods of pulp removal, and visit the drying patio and storage warehouse.

Continue with a journey into the history of cacao, where you’ll craft your own chocolate using time-honored techniques. You’ll also experience the traditional Costa Rican method of extracting sugarcane juice using a trapiche. After sampling your creations, you’ll see why coffee and chocolate are such an essential part of the country’s culture and cuisine. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge.

Depart San Jose International Airport

This morning, you will transfer by ground approximately 3 hours to the international airport in San Jose for your afternoon or evening departure.